The rebirth of a master of rhythm.
It's been almost 10 years since Jamie xx revolutionized the electronic scene with in Color (2015), an album that broke barriers and consolidated his identity as a producer outside The xx. Now, with In Waves (2024), Jamie returns with a work that reflects his evolution and experience accumulated over the years.
This new work overflows with creativity, showing a master of rhythm who manipulates emotions through sound, raising pulses and taking advantage of the silences before let go in drops masterful. In Waves reaffirms his talent to transform the tracks of dance in complete sensory experiences, immersing ourselves in a 12-track journey where Jamie perfects every detail thinking about the listener's reaction, whether in the privacy of your studio or in a crowded club.
Last October 1, taking advantage of a well-deserved break, we had the opportunity to visit Jamie in a room at his hotel to talk about his new material, his evolution as an artist and person.
Since we arrived, we walked the corridors of the hotel in search of the room for the interview. It wasn't that difficult to locate it, since we saw Jamie approaching us. We enter the room, where some chairs were waiting for us ready for conversation.
One might think that life in the music industry is the dream life: to be admired, to live to make people happy, enjoy concerts and endless parties. But, sometimes, Having it all does not guarantee happiness. On the contrary, it can generate dissatisfaction and questions about what happens outside of music. In this regard, Jamie comments.
Before the pandemic, I was always busy with tours and projects, and also focusing on growing as a musician. I've been at this for so long that when lockdown started I realized I had nothing left but the music. It's not a bad thing, but it shouldn't be the only thing. I started to find a lot of things I like outside of music and that motivated me to focus on finishing this album.”
For an artist, beginning to decipher one's own being can be a moment of breaking and growth. Understanding what really makes us happy frees the mind from demands of the industry and allows you to enjoy the creation process again.
With the pause, I began to pay attention to things that previously seemed irrelevant to me. But the best thing that happened to me was finding balance in my life. I built a completely different routine than the one I had before the pandemic, and I discovered the beauty of everyday life. That balance between my profession and everyday life keeps me sane and motivated.”
This balance not only brought peace to the spirit of Jamiebut also influenced their sound, who is more expressive than ever. The album invites you to get lost on the dance floor, surrounded by people looking to disconnect and enjoy the moment.
When I did In ColorI worked in a small studio, without opening my world much. It worked perfectly at the time, but for In WavesI began to show progress in my shows before the lockdown and built this album based on people's reactions. During lockdown I could only imagine how the public would react to it, and that approach was something completely new for me.”
Jamie He has already presented the album live several times, always receiving positive energy of the audience. The first time was at the festival Glastonbury 2024with a set special in which included the musicians who collaborated on the album. About this moment, comments.
Present the album in Glastonbury It was amazing. It was a set that we prepared for a long time and deserved special treatment. No one expected to see Robyn, or Oliver and Romy on stage. It was great to have them there. That concert will stay in my mind for a long time, although I don't think I'll do something similar again anytime soon, but you never know.”
The album includes notable collaborations, bringing together elite talent that elevates the proposal to the maximum. One of the most striking is the appearance of his companions band in “I Waited All Night”which suggests the upcoming return of The xx.
It's interesting to go back to the studio after everyone had their first individual project. Going from having full creative control to sharing it as a group was a challenge, but we managed to guide ourselves where we wanted and created a great piece. “It’s good to see them mature and focused.”
In addition to this collaboration, the album features other great talents such as The Avalanches, Panda Bear, Honey Dijon and the pop voice of Robyn in “Life”. Everyone contributes something unique and elevate the album to an extraordinary level.
Everyone on the album is important to me, whether musically or personally, which made it a natural process. But it was also the first time I worked with people I hadn't met before, and I delved into the world of pop stars. It was great to get out of my usual circle. “Each one fits perfectly into this new stage of my life.”
Creativity and talent were on the side of Jamie at all times of production. During the interview, he shared a story that describes the moment when he felt that the album was ready for the public.
I remember that they invited me to do a mix for the BBC. I invited some friends to my house to listen to it together, as was done before. I thought of all the people who would be doing the same, sharing the moment. Inspired by that idea, I polished all the album demos to see my friends enjoy what I had created. Thinking about everyone who also heard it, it was a human and memorable experience. “At that moment I knew I was ready to finish.”
Personally, this album has surprised me and I have already enjoyed it in several sessions of listen. It makes me want to share it with friends, to dance to it until I'm tired and to play it on my turntable to the limit. We close the interview with a question simple that reveals the most personal side of Jamie.
In “Life” you repeat the phrase “You have given me life” and invite everyone to enjoy the moment. What is it that gives you life?
At this moment in my life, it gives me life to go out on a bicycle, in silence. Just listening to the sound of the wheels and the road. “That gives me peace.”
As we say goodbye to Jamieit is clear that In Waves is a reflection of an artist who has found balance and satisfaction outside of music, bringing that serenity to his work. In a world where speed and noise dominate, Jamie has learned to appreciate silence and the rhythm of everyday life.
